Proximity Training Device

ABSTRACT

A proximity training device for use in training of activities (FIGS.  2, 20  and  21 ), that anybody can use whether they are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced activity enthusiast (user) participating in martial arts or another partner-oriented activities. The user is able to utilize the training device safely allowing them to maintain their physical fitness activities. The user engages the training device maintaining an upright posture and initiates movement thereby activating the training device. It is held within the same proximity of an in-person training partner, allowing the user to practice the fundamental biomechanical responses and other skills required for their preferred chosen activities. The training device is lightweight and easy to store. The arms are easily removed and are adjustable for optimizing user comfort and training device functionality. The training device is easy to assemble and disassemble which allows for easy transport and storage of the training device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 63/045,336, filed Jun. 29, 2020 by the present inventors, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

Nonapplicable.

SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM

Nonapplicable.

BACKGROUND 1. Field of Invention

The invention, a proximity training device or training device, for use in training of activities, relates to the field of movement exercises within the scope of activities that may be performed individually or with a partner for example: sports, such as martial arts and dance. The invention also relates to the fields of education and medical rehabilitation applications.

2. Prior Art

Current training devices existing for users to practice their preferred activities are limited in their applicability for an at-home user. For example many of the training devices, commonly known as training dummies, available for martial arts training applications include dummies that are heavy and awkward to maneuver. They are best utilized for users who are training for higher level competitive purposes, and under the direct supervision of an instructor. Use of these types of training dummies may cause injury to person or property if the user is not instructed in the proper and appropriate use of the training dummy. Additionally, the current training dummies are typically filled with a material that over time and repeated use will leak resulting in a training dummy that is no longer fulfilling its purpose. Some other training dummies require that the user stuff the training dummy themselves, this leads to a training dummy that may not be balanced properly and will lead to the user to develop bad posture and technique, ultimately resulting in injury to the user.

Additional prior art research revealed training devices that are limited in scope addressing only one aspect of an activity. For example a training device for Judo that focuses only on ASHI-WAZA skills, or dance training accessories that focus on developing only some of the essential fundamental biomechanical functions of movement. Other training dummies specifically tailored to grappling applications.

Overall, existing training dummies were developed as supplemental training devices to in-person instruction, and are not suitable for an at-home user.

SUMMARY

The invention is based on a need for users to social distance from one another for health and safety concerns. A need to social distance has disrupted entire fields of social activities for those users who rely on movement activities for fitness of mind, body, and spirit. Including users who participate in dance and martial arts activities, but is not limited to those specific activity categories. The invention allows the user to continue practicing and developing the fundamental biomechanical responses necessary to reduce risk of injury by allowing the user to focus on and repeatedly practice proper posture and application of a technique. This is accomplished by utilizing slow-controlled movements that have real-time effect on the ability of the brain to program the biomechanical responses essential to the mind body response connection. Human movement is a complicated biomechanical sequence. Repeated practice of incorrect biomechanical sequencing will ultimately lead users to injury because of poorly established biomechanical response timing.

Accordingly, these and related objects are accomplished by a training device, which includes:

-   -   a training device, according to the invention, because of its         shape and material, offering the minimal resistance for carrying         out movement exercises in a slow and controlled manner by the         user, but is not limited to that application and furthermore,         has a relatively low weight, not exceeding four pounds for the         basic model,     -   its shape is approximately that of a human spine with appendages         resembling the shape of human arms and human foot or human legs         and feet attached and therefore,     -   a real representation of the foot or feet of a partner, which         simulates the proximity of a partner in a user's chosen         activity. This is highly desirable since exercising with the         device is anticipated to be followed by actual training with an         in person partner when the circumstances allow the user to         return to their preferred activity being performed in its normal         setting.

Currently, there is no invention that has been identified by the inventors which addresses the need of persons who participate in partner-oriented movement activities that focus on the development of the fundamental biomechanical movement responses while practicing solo and without an in-person partner or instructor.

DRAWINGS Figures

FIG. 1 is an exploded view illustrating connecting relationship of inner training device spine components of a second embodiment of the proximity training device with attached training device foot described in the Description of Drawings Section below.

FIG. 2 is a frontal view of the training device, according to the invention, showing a first embodiment training device spine with training device foot (FIG. 14) attached. Dotted lines are representative of the curvature of the foam noodle training device spine. Training device arms (FIG. 18) are shown in a position where the arm cover attachments (FIG. 17) attach the training device arms to the training device spine. A view including the collar (FIG. 19) which would be looped around spine and tied to the spine in the front (FIG. 19a ) is not depicted.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view illustrating the connecting relationship of inner training device spine components of a third embodiment of the proximity training device with attached training device feet described in the Description of Drawings Section below.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a foam noodle with material for stabilizing training device spinal integrity indicated by dotted lines.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating an elongated support member, according to the invention, used for connecting means and stabilization of training device spine.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating means for connecting the plurality of parts, according to the invention, being a female connector.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating means for connecting the plurality of parts, according to the invention, being a male connector.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating means for connecting the plurality of parts, according to the invention, being a ninety degree elbow.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating means for connecting the plurality of parts, according to the invention, being a cap.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating means for connecting the plurality of parts, according to the invention, being a forty-five degree elbow.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustration of optional means for connecting the plurality of parts, according to the invention, being a cross fitting.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating means for connecting the plurality of parts, according to the invention, being a three-way tee.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating means for connecting the plurality of parts, according to the invention, being a swivel ball joint.

FIG. 13a is a perspective view of the swivel ball joint showing rotation of swivel ball.

FIG. 14 is a left side view illustrating training device foot according to the invention. Dotted line represents means for connection to training device spine inserted into training device foot.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating means for covering training device foot, according to the invention, being a stocking.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating means for covering the plurality of parts, according to the invention, being a fabric, tube-shaped cover with means for attaching to training device spine and training device legs.

FIG. 16a is a close-up view illustrating means for attaching a cover, according to the invention, being a drawstring closure system.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating means for attaching training device arms (FIG. 18) to training device spine, according to the invention, being fabric arm cover with means for attaching to training device spine being ties. The inner solid lines indicate the training device arms (FIG. 18) inserted into the cover, outer dotted lines represent stitching of cover with one end having means for closing arm cover, being a drawstring closure system (FIG. 16a ) for securing closure of end of arm cover.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating a foam noodle, according to the invention, representing a part of the training device being training device arms.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating means for attaching to training device, being a collar, according to the invention, being a fabric, tube-shaped cover for controlling and operating said training device.

FIG. 19a is a close-up view illustrating means for controlling and operating said training device, according to the invention, being a collar attached to training device spine (FIGS. 19a , 20, 21) and attached to training device legs (not depicted.)

FIG. 20 is a frontal view of a training device, according to the invention, showing a complete assembled second embodiment of the training device spine with training device foot, training device arms, with training device spine cover, arm cover and collar.

FIG. 21 is a frontal view of the two-legged training device, according to the invention, showing a complete assembled third embodiment training device spine with training device foot, training device arms, with training device spine cover, arm cover and collar.

These and other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the accompanying drawings, which disclose several embodiments of the training device invention. It is to be understood that the drawings are to be used for the purposes of illustration only, and not as a definition of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION First Embodiment

Referring to the FIG. 2, there is shown a training device comprising, but is not limited to, a plurality of resilient members that are connected to one another, comprised of a generally cylindrical-shaped training device spine comprised of, but not limited to, an elongated, polyethylene foam noodle (FIG. 4), with a stabilizing, yet flexible center (FIG. 5), with an attached training device foot (FIG. 14) comprised of but not limited to, variable-density self-skinning polyurethane expanding foam, attached at the lower end of the cylindrical-shaped training device spine.

The training device has training device arms (FIG. 18) comprised of, but is not limited to, variable-density, self-skinning polyurethane expanding foam. Said training device arms are inserted into an arm cover (FIG. 17) and then attached to the training device spine (FIG. 2) with means of attachment being fabric ties, but is not limited to this means of attachment (not depicted.)

Additionally, means (not depicted) may be attached to allow for suspension of the unit from a frame-type structure (not depicted) with rubber band attachments for repeated speed-entry training, and light resistance training, but is not limited to such frame-type structure or rubber band attachments.

The training device in FIG. 2 has a multiple piece removable cover comprised of a material which is durable and easily cleaned or replaced, preferably constructed of a rip-stop nylon or canvas-type material, but is not limited to such material. The training device spine cover is much like a long stocking which fits over the top of the training device spine. The cover is then pulled over the top end of the training device spine and secured by a drawstring closure system (FIG. 16a ), but is not limited to such closure system. The training device arms (FIG. 18) have a separate arm cover (FIG. 17) designed for ease of guiding and using the training device.

The arm covering has means for attachment (FIG. 17) to the training device spine (FIG. 21) being, but not limited to fabric ties. There is a separate collar (FIG. 19) that loops around the training device spine (FIG. 19a ) which functions as supplemental control of the training device by the user (not depicted.) The foot (FIG. 14) is covered with a stocking like material such as nylon (FIG. 15), it is not permanently attached and is easily replaceable.

As shown in FIG. 14 the bottom part of the training device is shaped in a form resembling a human foot having a flatter outer edge and conforming to the instep and front of the foot. A curved part having a smaller radius tapering inwardly and outwardly conforming to the transition from the training device foot to the training device spine (FIG. 2) and finally a rounded heel are also provided. In the simulated design of the average human foot the bevel of sourced slope in the ascending part simulates the instep of a human foot. The training device foot is sized to simulate the average human foot for adult, teen and child versions.

Furthermore, the training device shown in FIG. 2, which represents a completely assembled first embodiment may be manufactured by other methods which would allow for the production of a volume of units while keeping the device affordable.

Means for attachment and connection of additional weighted material may be placed in the training device foot FIG. 14 near the toe area and near the heel area. (Means for attachment not depicted.) Additional weighted material (not depicted) may also be placed in the arm attachment area of the spine the weighted material may be added in a number of manners, including but not limited to the following: insertion of weighted material in the tube of the training device spine (FIG. 4), insertion of weighted material in training device arms (FIG. 18). Weight may also be inserted in the hollow spaces which are not depicted in the drawings. The weighted material functions to increase the frictional resistance and the force that may be applied by the user for the given movement of the preferred user activity.

Said training device has a symmetrical, cylindrically-shaped training device spine (FIG. 2). Said training device offers identical training or exercising possibilities from any side irrespective of its position, which is important particularly for developing the fundamental biomechanical responses associated with chosen activities, which require and promote balanced and coordinated responses between the mind and the body.

Second Embodiment

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 20, an additional embodiment is realized when means for connection is inserted, as shown in FIG. 1 and detailed at FIGS. 13 and 13 a, illustrating swivel ball joint training device waist, but said addition is not limited to such a swivel ball joint being placed on the inner core of a training device spine or an elongated support member training device leg as shown in FIG. 1. Said training device spine is comprised of means being a cap (FIG. 9) attached to the top end of the elongated support member (FIG. 5) and means for connection to a male-end of swivel ball joint (FIG. 13) being a female connector (FIG. 6) attached to the lower end of the training device spine as shown in the FIG. 1. Said training device leg depicted in FIG. 1 is comprised of an upper elongated support member (FIG. 5) with means attached at the top end of the upper elongated support member as shown in FIG. 1 being a male connector (FIG. 7) connecting to female connector of swivel ball joint (FIG. 13) and having means of connecting to the upper end of the lower elongated support member (FIG. 5) being but not limited to means comprised of a forty-five degree elbow connector (FIG. 10) attached to the lower end of the upper elongated support member (FIG. 5) and connecting it to the upper end of the lower elongated support member (FIG. 5) which has means being a forty-five degree elbow (FIG. 10) attached to the lower end of the lower elongated support member and connecting the training device foot (FIG. 14) to the lower end of the support member training device leg.

Said training device foot (FIG. 14) is comprised with means for attachment to the training device spine inserted which includes, but is not limited to, an elongated length of support member (FIG. 5), with means for attachment to the training device spine, but is not limited to the following: forty-five degree elbow (FIG. 10), male or female connector (FIGS. 6 and 7) attached to the length of elongated support member (FIG. 5) protruding from training device foot (FIG. 14) or it may be produced as an elongated support member with the training device leg and training device foot as one piece (not depicted.)

The training device shown in FIG. 20 has a removable cover comprised of a material which is durable and easily cleaned or replaced, preferably constructed of a rip-stop nylon or canvas-type material, but is not limited to such material (FIGS. 16, 17, 19 and 20). The cover (FIG. 16) is much like a long stocking which fits over the top of the training device spine. The cover is then pulled over the top end of the training device spine and secured by a drawstring closure system (FIG. 16a ), but is not limited to such closure system. The training device arms (FIG. 18) have a separate arm cover (FIG. 17) designed for ease of attachment of arms and functions to assist user in guiding and using the training device. The arm covering has means for attachment (FIG. 17) to the training device spine (FIG. 20) being but not limited to fabric ties. The foot (FIG. 14) is covered with a stocking like material such as nylon (FIG. 15), it is not permanently attached and is easily replaceable. There is a separate collar (FIG. 19) that loops around the training device spine (FIG. 19a ) which functions as supplemental control of the training device by the user (not depicted.)

As shown in FIG. 14, the bottom part of the training device is shaped in the form resembling a human foot having a flatter outer edge and conforming to the instep or front of the foot. A curved part having a smaller radius tapering inwardly and outwardly conforming to the transition from the training device foot (FIG. 14) to the training device spine (FIG. 20) and finally a rounded heel are also provided. In the simulated design of the average human foot the bevel of sourced slope in the ascending part simulates the instep of a human foot. The training device foot is sized to simulate the average human foot for adult, teen and child versions.

Means for attachment and connection of additional weighted material may be placed in the training device foot (FIG. 14) near the toe area and near the heel area. (Means for attachment not depicted.) Additional weighted material (not depicted) may also be placed in the arm attachment area of the spine. The weighted material may be added in a number of manners, including but not limited to the following: insertion of weighted material in the tube of the training device spine, insertion of weighted material in training device arms (FIG. 18.) Weight may also be inserted in the hollow spaces which are not shown in the drawings. The weighted material functions to increase the frictional resistance and the force that may be applied by the user during the execution of a given movement of the preferred user activity.

Said training device has a symmetrical, cylindrically-shaped training device spine (FIG. 20). Said training device offers identical training or exercising possibilities from any side irrespective of its position, which is important particularly for developing the fundamental biomechanical response sequencing of movements associated with the user's chosen activities.

Third Embodiment

Referring to the FIGS. 3 and 21, there is shown a training device comprising, but is not limited to, a plurality of resilient members that are connected to one another (FIG. 3), comprised of a generally cylindrical-shaped training device spine comprised of, but not limited to, an elongated, polyethylene foam noodle (FIG. 4), with a stabilizing, yet flexible center, with elongated support members attached which are comprised of, but not limited to, an elongated support member (FIG. 5) covered with, but not limited to, an elongated, polyethylene foam noodle (FIG. 4), with the means for connection and attachment to training device spine as shown in FIG. 3 and detailed at FIGS. 13 and 13 a illustrating a swivel ball joint. Said training device spine is comprised of means being a cap (FIG. 9) attached to the top end of the training device spine and means for connection to male fitting of training device waist (FIG. 13) being a female connector (FIG. 6) attached to the lower end of the training device spine. Said training device waist is attached to the lower section of the training device with means of connection being, but not limited to, a three-way tee fitting (FIG. 12). Said training device waist is comprised of, but not limited to, a three way tee fitting with sufficient length of elongated support member (FIG. 5) extending from the three-way fitting to the right and left training device hips comprised of, but not limited to, means to connect the training device spine via the training device waist to a lower support member of the training device being, but not limited to, a ninety-degree elbow fitting (FIG. 8) connected to swivel-ball joint (FIG. 13) connected to male fitting (FIG. 7) being the means for connection to the training device legs. Said training device legs are comprised of an upper elongated support member (FIG. 5) with means for attachment connecting to the top end of the upper elongated support member as shown in FIG. 3 being a male connector (FIG. 7) and having means of connecting to the upper end of the lower elongated support member, being but not limited to, a forty-five degree elbow connector (FIG. 10) attached to the lower end of the upper elongated support member and connecting it to the upper end of the lower elongated support member which has means being, but not limited to, a forty-five degree elbow attached to the lower end of the lower elongated support member and connecting a training device foot to the lower end of the training device leg. The training device foot (FIG. 14) comprised of, but not limited to, variable-density self-skinning polyurethane expanding foam, attached at the lower end of the cylindrical-shaped support member training device leg as shown in FIG. 3.

As shown in FIGS. 14 and 21, the training device foot connected to the floor-end of said training device is shaped in the form of a simulated human foot, having a flatter outer edge and conforming to the instep or front of the foot. A curved part, having a smaller radius tapering inwardly and upward conforming to the transition from the foot to the spine and finally a rounded heel are also provided. In the simulated design of the average human foot the bevel of sourced slope in the ascending part simulates the instep of a human foot. The training device foot is sized to simulate the average human foot for adult, teen and child versions.

Said training device foot is comprised with means for attachment to lower end of the lower segment of the training device leg, protruding from top center of the foot and includes, but is not limited to, a length of elongated support member (FIG. 5), including but not limited to the elongated member with means for attachment to the training device leg, but is not limited to the following: forty-five degree elbow (FIG. 10) male or female connector (FIGS. 6 and 7) protruding from training device foot or may be produced as an elongated support member with the training device leg and training device foot as one piece (not depicted.)

The training device has training device arms (FIG. 18) comprised of, but is not limited to, variable-density, self-skinning polyurethane expanding foam. Said training device arms (FIG. 18) are inserted into an arm cover (FIGS. 17) and attached to the training device spine (FIG. 21) with means of attachment being fabric ties, but is not limited to this means of attachment. Means for attachment allows for some adjustability to optimize user experience.

The training device, illustrated in FIG. 21 is covered with a material which is durable and easily cleaned or replaced, preferably constructed of a rip-stop nylon or canvas-type material, but is not limited to such material. A cover (FIG. 16) is much like a long stocking which fits over the top of the training device spine. The cover is then pulled over the top end of the spine (FIG. 21) and secured with a drawstring closure system (FIG. 16a ), but is not limited to such closure system. The training device arms (FIG. 18) have a separate arm cover (FIG. 17) designed for user's ease of guiding the training device during use. The arm covering has means for attachment (FIG. 17) to the training device spine (FIG. 21) being but not limited to fabric ties. A similar tube-like cover (FIG. 16) is used for each of the individual training device legs on the two-legged training device. The cover fits over the foot and is secured by drawstring closure system at the connection of the training device foot to the training device leg and stretches up to the center of the training device hip structure where it is secured with a draw string closure type system (FIGS. 16a and 21). The foot (FIG. 14) is covered with a stocking like material such as nylon (FIG. 15), it is not permanently attached and is easily replaceable. There is a separate collar (FIG. 19) that loops around the training device spine (FIG. 19a ) with means for attachment to the hip structure which functions as supplemental control of the training device by the user (not depicted.)

Furthermore, the training device shown in exploded views FIG. 3 may be manufactured by other methods which would allow for the production of a volume of units while keeping the device affordable.

Means for attachment and connection of additional weighted material may be placed in the training device feet (FIG. 14) near the toe area and near the heel area. (Means for attachment not shown.) Additional weighted material may be placed in the arm attachment area of the spine (FIG. 21) the weighted material may be added in a number of manners, including but not limited to the following: insertion of weighted material in the tube of the training device spine (FIG. 5), insertion of weighted material in training device arms (FIG. 18), Weight may also be inserted in the hollow spaces which are not shown in the drawings. The weighted material functions to increase the frictional resistance and the force that may be applied by the user during execution of the given movement of the preferred user activity.

Said training device has a symmetrical, cylindrically-shaped training device spine (FIG. 21). Said training device offers identical training or exercising possibilities from any side irrespective of its position, which is particularly important for developing the fundamental biomechanical responses associated with a user's chosen activity, which require and promote balanced and coordinated responses between the mind and the body.

While several embodiments and examples of the invention have been illustrated and described, it is obvious that there are some changes and modifications that may be made thereunto, without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed invention.

Operation

The components that comprise the training device embodiments, referring to FIGS. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 operate and function as an internal stabilizing structure to prevent vertical collapse of the foam noodle (FIG. 4) when the user engages the training device.

The foam noodle (FIG. 4) operates and functions as a safety protection to reduce risk of injury if the user falls on it.

The swivel ball joint (FIGS. 13 and 13 a) operates and functions with the rotational capability that an in-person partner might utilize when engaging in the activity. The rotation action is activated at user direction based upon the user's chosen activity.

First Embodiment-Operation

The training device, shown in FIG. 2, is representative of a completely assembled first embodiment of the proximity training device. This particular embodiment has no special devices that make it function. This first embodiment operates when the user engages the device by gripping the collar (FIGS. 19 and 19 a) and a sleeve end on the arm cover (FIG. 17.) Additional gripping configurations can be utilized and are dependent upon the user's goals and the technique they are focusing on developing. The user chooses to hold the training device in the desired proximity for the technique they are focusing on developing. The user chooses to practice from a static position or may choose to move with the training device, which allows the user to focus on posture and timing without the risk of an in-person partner misapplying strength or using inappropriate force, thereby creating a situation where injury is more likely to occur and bad technique ingrained in the user's integration of biomechanical responses. The operation of the training device is completely user-activated.

Means can be attached to allow for suspension of the unit from a frame type structure with rubber bands for repeated speed entry training and possible light resistance training, but is not limited to, such material or structure, the means function to mimic a partner's static proximity to the user providing the user opportunity to develop and hone the fundamental skills necessary for effective, efficient, and safe execution of a chosen technique.

Second Embodiment-Operation

The training device, shown in FIG. 20, is representative of a completely assembled second embodiment of the proximity training device. This particular embodiment has a swivel ball waist that makes it function with more responsiveness at the user direction. This second embodiment operates when the user engages the device by gripping the collar and a sleeve end on the arm cover. Additional gripping configurations can be utilized and are dependent upon the user's goals and the technique they are focusing on developing. The user chooses to hold the training device in the desired proximity for the technique they are focusing on developing. The user chooses to practice from a static position or may choose to move with the training device, which allows the user to focus on posture and timing while under the stress of knowing an action must occur within a prescribed time or their opportunity to apply a specific technique will be lost, yet without the risk of an in-person partner creating misapplied strength or inappropriate force, thereby creating a situation where injury is more likely to occur and bad technique ingrained in the user's integration of biomechanical responses. The operation of the training device is completely user-activated.

Means can be attached to allow for suspension of the unit from a frame type structure with rubber bands for repeated speed entry training and possible light resistance training, but is not limited to, such material or structure, the means function to mimic a partner's static proximity to the user providing the user opportunity to develop and hone the fundamental skills necessary for effective, efficient, and safe execution of a chosen technique.

Third Embodiment-Operation

The training device, shown in FIG. 21, is representative of a completely assembled third embodiment of the proximity training device. This particular embodiment has a swivel ball waist and swivel ball hip joints that make it function with more responsiveness at the user direction. This third embodiment operates when the user engages the device by gripping the collar and a sleeve end on the arm cover. Additional gripping configurations can be utilized and are dependent upon the user's goals and the technique they are focusing on developing. The user chooses to hold the training device in the desired proximity for the technique they are focusing on developing. The user chooses to practice from a static position or may choose to move with the training device, which allows the user to focus on posture and timing while under the stress of knowing an action must occur within a prescribed time or their opportunity to apply a specific technique will be lost, yet without the risk of an in-person partner creating misapplied strength or inappropriate force, thereby creating a situation where injury is more likely to occur and bad technique ingrained in the user's integration of biomechanical responses. The operation of the training device is completely user-activated.

Means can be attached to allow for suspension of the unit from a frame type structure with rubber bands for repeated speed entry training and possible light resistance training, but is not limited to, such material or structure, the means function to mimic a partner's static proximity to the user providing the user opportunity to develop and hone the fundamental skills necessary for effective, efficient, and safe execution of a chosen technique.

Conclusion, Additional Ramifications Advantages

The primary goal for developing the training device was to address the lost training opportunities for practitioners of Judo during times where members of communities are required to remain isolated. However, the device can be utilized for other activities including: dance, patient rehabilitation, teaching students with sensory issues, and physical fitness programs in schools.

The training device invention fills a void in activities that are primarily, and usually practiced in person with an instructor and or a partner, however these activities were disrupted and may possibly be again. Users everywhere are challenged with finding temporary, affordable, and practical solutions to maintaining their ability and access to practice their preferred chosen activities while addressing the issues related to social-distancing recommendations, and health measures implemented for the safety of all. The training device solves this problem, and additional problems that currently exist regarding access to facilities and including other problems not yet facing society on a large scale, but contemplated by the inventor. The problems are solved because the user can continue to practice and develop the foundational biomechanical responses of their chosen activity despite not being able to practice them in person for whatever reason.

The invention relates to a training device for practicing the movements associated with activities that are typically practiced in-person and in some applications with a partner. The settings for the practice of the activities generally have training equipment set-ups or other types of training devices that are specialized and focused toward the goals of the user's preferred chosen activity. The type of equipment found in these settings are generally not appropriate for a home practice setting. Homes were not contemplated for this use by the typical user. If a typical user is required to have the same type of set-up at home in order to continue practice, the expense for modifications would be cost prohibitive. Additionally, many users may have living circumstances where they could not make changes to a property, and would thereby be unable to continue in the activity.

The invention has the advantage of allowing the user to continue practice of their preferred chosen activity by providing a training device that is designed for developing the fundamental biomechanical sequencing connections related to movement skills which are essential for movement-oriented activities, but nevertheless are typically neglected by the average activity enthusiast, and whereby such neglect may lead to injury.

The invention allows for remote instruction, whereby an instructor can view the student and provide real-time feedback on technique while continually stressing safety. The invention allows many activities that have been traditionally practiced in-person with a partner to be practiced by users who are not able to participate in the in-person activity classes for a variety of reasons including, but not limited to required social distancing efforts, as well as the user's physical location related to availability of local resources for the chosen activity.

The invention addresses issues related to physical fitness options for students in primary and secondary educational settings. An advantage is that generally every student may participate in the activities using the training device with little to no risk of injury, while still increasing fitness levels in a fun and engaging manner. Because the students do not need to touch each other the risk of injury to students is reduced. Additionally this gives school administrators an option for the physical fitness activities that they are able to offer. This would be especially true in regions where bad weather conditions force students to remain indoors. Additionally, liability concerns for school administrators are greatly reduced, and the inclusion of an alternative physical activity may assist with some disciplinary issues faced by school personnel.

It is an additional advantage of the invention to provide a training device for the user to develop proper posture in execution of techniques which is supported by the upright design of the invention as it is employed in practice by the user. Proper posture is transferable to better health of user and overall benefits to the psychological, physical, and emotional health of the user.

The invention has the advantage of providing a training device for developing and encouraging the user to focus on the foundational biomechanical movement responses associated with a user's preferred activity.

The training device is activated by the user engaging the training device and then moving. The training device which is simple in design, lightweight, inexpensive to manufacture, aesthetic, easy to store, and which encourages the exercise of the techniques in a playful, noncompetitive, and nonthreatening manner. The soft, rounded material of the training device is designed to reduce risk of injury, even if the user falls on it. The shape and design are safe and fun for all ages. The invention can be utilized by beginner, intermediate, and advanced users, whether they are adults, teens, or children.

The methods and materials described in the claims include some of the methods utilized by the lay person inventors without access to or knowledge of advanced technology or manufacturing processes. The inventors imagine and have visualized that this device could be made efficiently and cost-consciously, if the product is produced in large quantities based on access to proper manufacturing equipment. One method envisioned would allow for the device to be manufactured with the correct amount of rigidity and flexibility, if the unit is produced as a device with four main parts comprised of the training device spine, with arms, legs and cover as separate components. The means for connecting the parts would be embedded into the different components for assembly and disassembly by the user. By manufacturing a device that requires some assembly by the end user, shipping costs would be reduced as the product could be shipped safely in a sturdy mailing bag. 

I claim:
 1. A proximity training device of the character described, comprising but not limited to, a plurality of members that are connected to one another to form a manikin encompassing a major portion of said members comprised of: a. a generally elongated, cylindrical shaped training device spine comprised of, but not limited to, a polyethylene foam noodle with means for stabilizing the foam noodle the function of which is to prevent vertical collapse upon engagement by the user, b. with attached training device foot comprised of variable-density, self-skinning polyurethane expanding foam, but not limited to such material, and attached at the lower end of the spine with means for connection, including but not limited to a sufficient length of elongated support member with means for attachment being a connector, c. with training device arms comprised of, but not limited to, variable-density, self-skinning polyurethane expanding foam and means for attachment to the training device spine including but not limited to, an arm cover system which functions for adjustable placement of the arms on the training device spine to optimize user experience,
 2. the training device, as set forth in claim one, wherein said training device spine is a hollow foam noodle with an elongated support member of sufficient length being plastic pipe inserted to stabilize the training device spine with means being a plastic cap attached at the upper end of the training device spine that functions to secure the hollow foam noodle to the plastic pipe,
 3. the training device, as set forth in claim one, wherein said training device spine has said training device foot, comprised of polyurethane-expanding foam with an elongated support member being plastic pipe inserted into the training device foot and fixedly connected to said training device spine at the lower end by means of a plastic connector,
 4. the training device, as set forth in claim one, wherein training device arms, comprised of generally cylindrical shaped polyurethane foam of sufficient length and with means for attachment to training device spine being, but not limited to, a fabric cover with cloth ties for attachment to training device spine. Said training device arms being detachable for ease of storage and transport, as well as functioning to adjust placement of training device arms on the training device spine,
 5. an additional embodiment of the training device, as set forth in claim one, comprised of a plurality of members wherein: a. the foam noodle and plastic pipe training device spine is cut to sufficient lengths and wherein means for connecting the plurality of sections described, b. and which function as a training device waist and hips being, but not limited to, c. a plastic female fitting attached to the lower end of the training device spine connecting to means being, but not limited to, a swivel ball joint for connecting to, d. means being, but not limited to, a plastic male fitting attached to the upper end of the upper elongated support member with, e. means for connecting to lower elongated support member being a plastic forty-five degree elbow with angle pointed forward attached to lower end of upper elongated support member and connecting to upper end of lower elongated support member and having, f. means being a plastic forty-five degree elbow attached at the lower end of the lower elongated support member with the angle pointed backwards and connecting, g. the training device foot to the training device leg of said training device,
 6. the training device, as set forth in claim one, further including weights arranged within, but not limited to placement in said training device spine, training device foot and training device arms,
 7. a training device cover, means for covering the connected plurality of parts of the invention as set forth in claim one being, but not limited to: a. durable and easily cleaned or replaced material in the shape of an elongated tube shaped stocking which fits over the top of the training device spine and is pulled down to the top of the training device foot, b. the training device foot is covered with a nylon stocking, but is not limited to such material, c. the training device arms have separate arm cover comprised of a cover with means for attachment of training device arms to the training device spine by fabric ties or other means, d. a collar as a point of user engagement for operation of the training device,
 8. means can be attached to allow for suspension of the unit from a frame type structure with rubber bands for repeated speed entry training and possible light resistance training, but is not limited to, such material or structure, the means function to mimic a partner's static proximity to the user providing the user opportunity to develop and hone the fundamental skills necessary for effective, efficient, and safe execution of a chosen technique,
 9. A proximity training device of the character described, comprising but not limited to, a plurality of members that are connected to one another to form a manikin encompassing a major portion of said members comprised of: a. a generally elongated, cylindrical shaped training device spine comprised of but not limited, to a polyethylene foam noodle with means for stabilizing the foam noodle to prevent vertical collapse upon engagement by the user, b. with attached training device legs comprised of, but not limited to, a generally cylindrical-shaped upper elongated support member comprised of, but not limited to, an elongated, polyethylene foam noodle, with means for stabilizing the foam noodle to prevent vertical collapse upon engagement by the user with means for connection and attachment being, but not limited to, swivel ball joint training device waist, but said addition is not limited to such a joint being placed on the inner core of a training device spine or the inner core of a training device legs, c. the training device spine is comprised of means being a cap attached to the top end of the elongated support member which is the training device spine with means for connecting to training device waist being a connector attached at the lower end of the training device spine. Said training device waist is attached at lower end of training device spine to training device hips with means of connection being, but not limited to, a three-way tee connector, d. the training device waist is comprised of means being, but not limited to, a three way tee connector with sufficient length of elongated support member connecting to right and left training device hips, e. the training device hips are comprised of a plurality of members which are means for connecting to the swivel ball joint training device hip joints being, but not limited to, ninety-degree elbow connector connecting to a means for connecting the upper elongated section of the training device legs to the training device hip joints being a connector attached to the top end of the upper elongated section of the training device legs, f. the training device legs are comprised of an upper elongated support member with means for connecting the top end of upper elongated support member being a connector with additional means for connecting to top end of lower elongated support member being, but not limited to, a forty-five degree connector attached to bottom end of the upper elongated support member and attached to the top end of the lower elongated support member. Additional means for connecting training device feet to the training device legs, being but not limited to, a forty-five degree connector attached to the bottom end of the lower elongated support member and attached to the top end of an elongated support member protruding from the training device feet, g. the training device feet comprised of, but not limited to, variable-density self-skinning polyurethane expanding foam, attached at the lower end of training device legs, the training device feet connecting to the lower end of said training device are shaped in the form of a simulated human foot, having a flatter outer edge and conforming to the instep or front of the feet, a curved part, having a smaller radius tapering inwardly and upward conforming to the transition from the foot to the spine and finally a rounded heel are provided, the feet are sized to simulate the average human foot for adult, teen, and child versions, said feet are comprised with means for attachment to legs being, but not limited to, a length of elongated support member, h. training device arms comprised of, but not limited to, variable-density, self-skinning polyurethane expanding foam and means for attachment to the spine, including but not limited to, an arm cover with means for adjusting placement of the arms on the spine to optimize user experience,
 10. the training device, as set forth in claim nine has a plastic forty-five degree elbow fitting functioning as a training device knee joint connecting the upper elongated support member to the lower elongated support member,
 11. the training device as set forth in claim nine has a plastic forty-five degree elbow fitting functioning as an training device ankle joint connecting the foot to the lower end of the lower elongated support member,
 12. the training device, as set forth in claim nine has a length of an elongated support member extending from the middle of the foot to allow attachment of means for connecting to the plastic forty-five degree elbow fitting attached to the bottom end of the lower elongated support member,
 13. the training device as set forth in claim nine, has training device arms comprised of polyurethane foam. Said training device arms are inserted into an arm cover and attached to the training device spine with means of attachment being fabric ties, but is not limited to such means of attachment described. Means for attachment functions to optimize user experience,
 14. the training device cover, as set forth in claim nine is material which is durable and easily cleaned or replaced: a. the cover is the that of an elongated tube shaped stocking fitting over the top of the training device spine and is pulled down to the training device foot, the cover is secured by a drawstring closure, but is not limited to such closure system, the training device legs on the double-legged training device have separate pant-legs these are the same type of elongated tube shaped stockings used for the training device spine cover, described above, b. the training device foot is covered with a nylon stocking, but is not limited to such material, c. the training device arms have a separate arm cover comprised of a cover with means for attachment of arms to the spine by fabric ties or other means, d. a collar is provided for the operation of the training device with means for attachment to the hip structure of the training device being, but not limited to elastic bands,
 15. means can be attached to allow for suspension of the unit from a frame-type structure with rubber bands for repeated speed entry training and possible light resistance training, but is not limited to such material or structure. The means functions to mimic the static position of an opponent's proximity to the user providing the user opportunity to develop and hone the fundamental skills necessary for effective, efficient, and safe execution of a chosen technique. 